Setting Up a Fund

Before you set up a fund at OICF, think about when you want to give, what you want to give, what type of fund, and the name of your fund. Read below for more information and refer to the Establishing a Fund at OICF. If you have questions contact us.

Decide When to Give

You can create your fund now, establish it in your will, or create it through a trust arrangement that benefits your family as well as charity. You may give in honor of a special person, to celebrate a special event, or to support a cause. Tax deductions are earned at the time of your gift, while grants and distributions from your fund will continue into the future.

Decide What to Give

Almost any kind of asset can be used to start your fund (see a list of assets OICF accepts). We can also discuss bequests, memorials, or charitable remainder trusts. In general, $2,500 is the minimum amount required to open a new Donor Advised Fund and $5,000 is the minimum required to open a new designated fund.

Choose the Name for Your Fund

Most of our funds are named for the donor (an individual, family, or organization) or as a memorial to someone special. Every grant from the fund will carry this name. If you prefer to remain anonymous, the name of the fund can reflect the nature of your charitable purposes.